GTPAC’s project was prompted by the issuance of Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) 252.204-7012 which requires defense contractors who process, store, or transmit “covered defense information” to implement 110 cybersecurity controls outlined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – or document how they will do so. The requirement has presented a challenge to many small contractors that may not have a dedicated IT professional on staff.

GTPAC stepped up to address the challenge. They produced a high-quality instructional video and supplemental materials that provide step-by-step guidance for achieving compliance with the DFARS cybersecurity requirements. In addition to the video, they created a 127-page template for creating required documentation of compliance, including a System Security Plan (SSP) and a Plan of Action (PoA).

The video and resources are published on the GTPAC website where they can be viewed and downloaded free of charge. They represent an invaluable resource not only for GTPAC clients but for all Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) and their clients. PTACs across the country are able to use the GTPAC resources to effectively assist small businesses in conducting a self-assessment, and—in conjunction with the template—help them to create the documents they need.

APTAC’s Outstanding Project Award recognizes an accomplishment that stands out from the usual activities that all PTACs organize and undertake. The award is given to projects that benefit all APTAC members and/or serve as a model for other PTACs to emulate. GTPAC’s proactive and innovative project to create a valuable resource that can be used by all represents just such an initiative.

APTAC is the professional organization of and for the 94 Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) sponsored by the Defense Department’s Defense Logistics Agency and local host organizations. APTAC supports the PTACs by providing them critical updates on the ever-changing procurement processes across all federal agencies; comprehensive training opportunities and certification; and a national presence to collaborate with federal agencies on small business contracting initiatives and otherwise provide a voice in national government contracting assistance and policy arenas.

The GTPAC helps Georgia businesses identify, compete for, and win government contracts. Their assistance comes in the forms of teaching, mentoring and coaching. They also provide clients with a set of electronic tools to research and identify government contracting opportunities. Services are available at no cost to any Georgia business, large or small, that possesses the interest and potential to perform work—as a prime contractor or a subcontractor—for federal, state or local government agencies.